Celebrating music feminist style

Women have made their mark in the world of music since time immemorial. Be it classical or commercial genres, they have come out with flying colours.

However, there has been little scope for budding female artistes who seek a platform to showcase their talent in the world of Disk Jockeying.

Recognizing this need, ‘Dance Music Event’ had launched the ‘Women In Music’ festival last year where women musicians from different parts of the world gathered to perform their genre of music.

Continuing the spirit of music this year as well, DME recently launched the second edition of the annual ‘Women In Music’ festival at the Claridges. The festival will last for five days, beginning 16th May. Monica Dogra was announced as the Brand ambassador for ‘DME Women In Music’.

An American singer of Indian origin, Monica’s band Shaa'ir and Func has been recognized internationally and is known for the electro rock music. Dogra also made her debut in Kiran Rao’s Dhobhi Ghat and has hosted a musical collaborative show called ‘Dewarists.’

Suvidha Dhalwani, Head of the ‘Dance Music Event’ was also present on the occasion. “We have got a number of female artists approaching us since the inception of WIM festival last year.

Last time we had 12 DJs from across the world and this year we have 22 DJs who would be performing at different venues. So, it is bigger and better this time.”

The idea is to explore the dynamic progress of women in music and to recognize the musical prowess of the upcoming female artists. DJing is considered to be a male dominated area but now women DJs are creating their space among DJs.

“There is a very famous quote that I would like to mention here - ‘feminism is not about equality but reprieve.’ We women have definitely moved forward but DJing still needs that feminine touch,” says Monica.

On being asked as to why she chose to be the brand ambassador of WIM, Monica said, “DME has created this platform for the upcoming female talent in the music world. For me it’s being a feminist musically, so why not?!”

A visibly excited Dogra announced names of participants who will be performing during the 5 day festival and includes DJs from Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, Goa and places such as Italy, Germany, Brussels and Kiev.

These DJs would be performing at 12 different venues including Aura, Blue Frog, Smoke House Grill, Shroom, Hype, Urban pind, Fbar, Capitol, Jynxx, and Clarion.

However the show stopper this year will be British musician/singer/DJ Sonique who will be performing live for her fans in a special appearance exclusively at the festival. Some of her biggest hits include 'it feels so good' and 'sky'.